Four clans of Kerowagi reconcile after 20 years of tribal fight
After 20 years of exile and harvesting the terrible and negative results of tribal fight, the people of Kamakane, Gogmba, Gogkane and Bomaiku clans in the Gena tribe of Kerowagi district of Simbu Province finally laid that enmity to rest.
The warring clans fought for the last 20 years since 2006 over a Sorcery Accusation Related Violence [SARV]. This conflict has claimed eight lives but thankfully it ended peacefully with the planting of the cross.
Families and relatives of those killed from either sides came out and publicly reconciled for what had happened.
The moment of reconciliation marked the beginning of transformation for all parties. This occasion also enables the warring tribes who involved in the fight using high powered guns came together at Kamboo village in the presence of church pastors and community leaders and declared peace and sought forgiveness.
The peaceful reconciliation was made possible by Fr Christopher Onguglo after years of negotiations under the theme 'Forgive and Forget' backed by the Saint Christopher Alive Association.
Fr Onguglo thanked Saint Christopher Alive Association, Melanesian Institute of Goroka and the local church partners for successfully handling the negotiation process and restore peace and normalcy lost over the past two decades.
He said their work in seeing the transformation of lives in communities through practical advocacy and awareness is commendable.
"Through collaboration, support and partnership we are able to achieve this peaceful ceremony which is a milestone achievement," said Onguglo
Meanwhile, the community leader, Kua Kawagle appreciated the effort of Fr Onguglo, the Saint Christopher Alive Association and the Melanesia institute of Goroka for the successful process .
He also thanked the warring clans for their courageous act of forgiveness after two decades of pain and suffering, saying it's a true sign of transformation.
He said this event is not just for the four involved clans but a strong message to Kerowagi district, Simbu and PNG that peace is possible and reconciliation is the path forward.
This significant turn of event ended with emotionally strong vows from affected families and youths who promised not to repeat the same mistakes in the future.